RV Recycling: What Actually Gets Recycled
When you recycle an RV, the metal frame, engine, transmission, wheels, tires, batteries, appliances, and any recyclable interior fixtures are recovered, while the fiberglass shell, foam insulation, and non‑recyclable plastics usually go to a landfill or a specialty scrap yard.
Below is a step‑by‑step guide that starts with the cheapest, most environmentally friendly options and ends with paid junk‑removal services when you need a hand.
1. Transfer Ownership & Legal Clean‑Up
1.1 Cancel the Title and License Plates
- DMV notification – Submit a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability.
- Remove plates – Return them to the DMV or destroy them per state rules.
1.2 Check for Outstanding Loans or Liens
- Pay off any remaining balance or arrange a payoff‑by‑sale with the lender.
1.3 Document the Condition
- Take photos and note mileage; this helps when you negotiate with salvage yards or donors.
2. Donate or Sell Usable Parts First
2.1 Donation Programs
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore, Goodwill, and local Veterans’ charities accept RVs that are still drivable or can be stripped for parts.
- You may receive a tax deduction (consult a tax professional).
2.2 Private Sale of Components
- Engine, transmission, and axles can fetch $200‑$800 each depending on condition.
- Appliances (refrigerator, stove, microwave) often sell for $50‑$150 each on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.
2.3 Why This Saves Money
- Removing high‑value items reduces the volume you’ll need to haul, lowering any later removal cost by up to 30 %.
3. Scrap Metal & Component Recycling
3.1 What Metal Gets Recycled
| Component | Typical Material | Approx. Weight | Typical Recycling Value* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frame & chassis | Steel | 800‑1,200 lb | $0.05‑$0.15 / lb |
| Engine & transmission | Cast iron/steel | 400‑600 lb | $0.07‑$0.20 / lb |
| Wheels & rims | Steel/aluminum | 150‑250 lb | $0.04‑$0.12 / lb |
| Tubular steel (tanks, supports) | Steel | 100‑200 lb | $0.05‑$0.15 / lb |
| Batteries (lead‑acid) | Lead | 30‑50 lb each | $0.30‑$0.50 / lb (often paid to take) |
*Values vary by region; urban centers with higher landfill fees pay more for scrap.
3.2 Where to Take It
- Local scrap yards – Call ahead for weight‑based tipping fees (often $30‑$60 per ton).
- Specialty RV recyclers – Some accept whole units, dismantle on‑site, and pay for metal.
3.3 How to Prepare
- Drain all fluids (fuel, oil, refrigerant).
- Remove batteries and label them as hazardous.
- Separate aluminum wheels from steel rims for higher pay.
4. Handling Non‑Recyclable Materials
4.1 Fiberglass Shells
- Most landfills do not accept fiberglass; you need a specialty demolition contractor.
- Expect a disposal fee of $300‑$600 for a full‑size RV shell.
4.2 Foam Insulation & Plastic Trim
- Typically landfilled; some recycling centers accept bulk foam for $0.02‑$0.04 / lb.
4.3 Propane Tanks & Hazardous Waste
- Empty and return the tank to a retailer for a $5‑$10 refund.
- Any residual refrigerant must be reclaimed by a licensed technician.
5. DIY vs. Professional Junk Removal
5.1 When DIY Makes Sense
- You have a truck or trailer that can handle the load.
- You can strip and separate metal, appliances, and tires yourself.
- You live near a scrap yard with low tipping fees.
5.2 When to Call a Pro
- The RV is immobile, too large for your vehicle, or located on a tight lot.
- You lack the time or equipment to drain fluids safely.
- You prefer a single‑day, all‑in‑one service that handles permits, loading, and cleanup.
5.2.1 1‑800‑GOT‑JUNK Overview
- Pricing is volume‑based in 1/8‑truck increments.
- Minimum load (1/8 truck, 1.25 ft × 5 ft × 8 ft) costs $100‑$150.
- Small loads range $107‑$396.
- Medium loads $396‑$600.
- Large loads $600‑$1,099.
- What’s included – labor, loading from anywhere on the property, hauling, disposal/recycling fees, and post‑job cleanup. Crews are licensed and insured.
- Booking – free on‑site estimate (no credit card required), crew calls 25‑30 min before arrival, same‑day service often available.
- Discount truth – No official military, senior, student, or AAA discounts. Email‑list sign‑ups can net $10‑$25 off; local franchise promos may apply.
5.2.2 Competitor Snapshot
| Company | Minimum Charge | Pricing Model | Typical Range (Volume) | Notable Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1‑800‑GOT‑JUNK | $100‑$150 (1/8 truck) | Volume‑based | $107‑$1,099 | Mattress recycling fee $10.50 in CA/CT/RI |
| LoadUp | $89 minimum | Per‑item, fixed online price | $89‑$600+ (depends on items) | No hidden fees; price locked at booking |
| Junk King | $99 minimum | Volume‑based | $389‑$488 (half truck) $589‑$658 (full truck) |
Approx. online estimate |
| College Hunks | $150‑$750 per job | Volume‑based | $150‑$750 | $99 service/dispatch fee disclosed after booking |
5.3 Worked Dollar Example
You have a medium‑size RV (≈ 12 ft long, 5 ft high, 8 ft wide) that you’ve stripped of appliances and batteries. The remaining shell weighs about 2,500 lb (≈ 1.25 tons).
- Scrap metal value (average $0.10 / lb) → $250 paid by the scrap yard.
- Tire disposal fee – 4 tires @ $15 each → $60.
- Fiberglass disposal – specialist quote $450.
Total cost without a pro service:
Disposal fees = $60 + $450 = $510
Net after scrap credit = $510 – $250 = $260
If you hired 1‑800‑GOT‑JUNK for a medium load (price $500 average), you’d pay $500 and receive no scrap credit. The DIY route saves about $240 but requires a truck, time, and handling of hazardous fluids.
6. Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
| Mistake | Why It Hurts | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Leaving fluids in the RV | Illegal dumping fines; hazardous waste fees can add $200‑$400. | Drain fuel, oil, coolant, and refrigerant before transport. |
| Trying to haul the whole RV on a small trailer | Over‑loading can damage your vehicle and cause safety violations. | Split the job: remove shell, metal, and tires separately. |
| Assuming the entire RV is recyclable | Fiberglass, foam, and some plastics are not accepted at most yards. | Research local facilities; budget for non‑recyclable disposal. |
| Not checking for local scrap yard tipping fees | You might pay $300 for a load that could be $150 elsewhere. | Call 2‑3 yards for per‑ton rates before committing. |
| Relying on outdated coupon codes | Most codes are invalid; you waste time and may miss real savings. | Join the 1‑800‑GOT‑JUNK email list for verified $10‑$25 discounts. |
| Skipping the donation step | You lose potential tax deductions and free removal by charities. | List usable parts on free platforms before scrapping the rest. |
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I recycle the entire RV in one trip?
A: Only if you have a full‑size flatbed truck and a local scrap yard that accepts whole units. Most owners need to dismantle it into smaller components.
Q2: How much is a mattress recycling fee?
A: In California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island the Bye Bye Mattress program adds a $10.50 per unit fee, which 1‑800‑GOT‑JUNK may pass through.
Q3: Do I need a permit to dump an RV?
A: Many municipalities require a disposal permit for large items. Check your city’s public works website; the permit cost is usually $20‑$50.
Q4: What’s the best way to get cash for scrap metal?
A: Call several local scrap yards for weight‑based rates, bring a scale‑ticket if possible, and negotiate the highest per‑pound price. Some yards pay extra for clean, separated metal.
Q5: Are there any free recycling programs for RV tires?
A: Some state environmental agencies run tire‑recycling events or offer $5‑$10 per tire credits. Search “tire recycling program + [your state]”.
Q6: How does the “Flex” product from 1‑800‑GOT‑JUNK work?
A: You load a bag or container yourself, then the crew picks it up for a flat fee starting at $39. It’s useful for small items like mattresses or a single sofa, but not for an entire RV.
Takeaway
Recycle the metal, batteries, and appliances yourself whenever possible; use a scrap yard for the shell and pay only the necessary disposal fees. Paid junk‑removal services like 1‑800‑GOT‑JUNK are convenient but typically cost more than a DIY approach once you factor in scrap credits.